What is a Pearl?
A pearl is a natural secretion, mainly of crystalline calcium carbonate, that forms around an irritation inside the shell of an oyster.
Natural Pearls
In naturally formed pearls the irritation is usually a grain of sand or a piece of plankton. By the end of the 19th century there were hardly any natural pearls left in the world.
Cultured Pearls
In the early 20th century the Japanese started inserting small beads of 'mother of pearl' into oysters. This 'cultivating' or farming of pearls became a big business led by the Mikimoto Pearl Company creating Akoya seawater cultured pearls.
Freshwater Pearls
Pearls don't only form in the sea. They also form in mussels in lakes and rivers. The Romans so highly prized the freshwater pearls that they found growing in the Scottish river Dee, that it's considered to be one of the reasons why Julius Caesar decided to invade Britain.
The Chinese are believed to have been the first to experiment with cultivating pearls as early as the 14th century in large mussels. Way before the Japanese.
In the last 50 years or so the production of freshwater cultured pearls has improved dramatically.
10-20 pearls can grow in one mussel against 1x seawater pearl per oyster in Akoya pearls.
They can grow in different shapes and sizes.
Lustre
The tiny crystals that make up a pearl break up light creating an iridescence or lustre which gives them their attractive shine.
The higher the lustre, the higher the price!
Colour
Pearls can form naturally in creamy, white or pink as well as grey and black. This is caused by the mineral make up of the water as they grow.
However freshwater pearls are often stained to create a whole array of different colours.
Pearls are the birthstone for June and are known to be a symbol of love, loyalty and elegance. This beautiful gem is particularly popular at weddings as bridal jewellery. We stock some wonderful examples of natural pearls, cultured pearls and freshwater pearls. There is something for every occasion, both classic styles and contemporary designs, so please explore our website or pop in-store to see our amazing range of necklaces, bracelets, earrings and more!